Are rental property expenses (e.g. payment for snow removal) paid to a person (not a licensed business) tax deductible?

[hfuller2]

I have a rental property for which an individual does snow and leaf removal and lawn mowing for me. I also have another individual that performs services such as collect the rent and deposits it into my checking account, occasionally inspects the property, arranges for repairs when necessary, etc. (similar to a property manager). Neither of these individuals have licensed businesses for the services they provide. They are just individuals I know and trust, who are will to do these services for me while I'm away for extended periods of time. I pay these persons an agreed upon amount for their services. Since these persons do not have licensed businesses, can I still submit the expenses as rental property deductions?

[RichardK]

Yes, you can deduct the amounts you pay to maintain your rental property, however, you may be required to send independent contractors a 1099-MISC.